Paradise Bay Island Eco-Escape

Paradise Bay Island Eco-Escape Review

Talk about secluded—this intimate, eco-friendly lodge on South Long Island's isolated southern tip is accessible only by helicopter. Each bungalow fronts pristine Paradise Bay beach and is individually appointed, with a king-size bed, reproduction and antique furnishings, and authentic Aboriginal artworks from the owner's collection. Crafted from Australian hardwood, fan-cooled, cathedral-ceilinged bungalows have polished wood floors and private verandas with hammocks, oriented to capture morning sun, glorious sunsets and gentle sea breezes. With a maximum 16 guests at a time, a two-night minimum stay, no kids under 16, no TVs and no cell phone reception, it's easy to balance solitude and sociability. The tariff covers all meals including a nightly four-course gourmet dinner with Australian house wines, beers and soft drinks; picnic lunches; afternoon teas; house drinks after 6 pm; heli-transfers; use of snorkeling gear, wet suits, and kayaks; skippered sailing excursions and fast RIB rides to nearby beaches, islands, and coral gardens every day but Sunday, weather permitting; plus rain-forest and mangrove walks. In addition to its complimentary activities, the lodge offers mainland helicopter transfers (A$290 return), half-day heli-tours over the Whitsunday Islands, including Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach, for A$698 per person (minimum two). The tour includes a 40-minute scenic flight each way, snorkeling and semisubmersible tours at the Hardy Reef pontoon—after the day-visitor crowds have left—and an optional dive for certified divers. The lodge incorporates all sorts of sustainable technology—advanced solar panels; eco-friendly waste management; rainwater tanks; low-flow rainwater showerheads and carbon offset programs—without compromising on luxury or comfort. Bring essentials and medicines; leave power-guzzling appliances behind.